Print

Cozy One-Pot Kielbasa and Potato Soup – Easy Budget Dinner

kielbasa and potato soup - featured image

A hearty, budget-friendly one-pot soup with smoky kielbasa and tender potatoes in a creamy broth. Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a cozy weeknight dinner that pleases the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound kielbasa, sliced into half-moons
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Brown the kielbasa. Heat the olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced kielbasa in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the kielbasa to a plate and set aside.
  2. Sauté the aromatics. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the diced onion to the pot with the rendered fat (there should be about a tablespoon left; if there’s too much, spoon some out). Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Build the base. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in about ½ cup of the chicken broth while stirring to loosen the mixture, then add the remaining broth, smoked paprika, dried thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine.
  4. Cook the potatoes. Add the cubed potatoes to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes. The potatoes should be fork-tender but not falling apart.
  5. Finish the soup. Return the browned kielbasa to the pot. In a small bowl, whisk together the milk and an additional tablespoon of flour (this prevents lumps). Slowly pour the milk mixture into the soup while stirring gently. Let it simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes, until the soup thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more salt, pepper, or a pinch of smoked paprika if needed.
  6. Serve. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

Notes

For the best texture, use Yukon Gold potatoes. Don’t skip browning the kielbasa—it adds deep flavor. If the soup gets too thick upon reheating, add a splash of broth or milk. For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: kielbasa soup, potato soup, one-pot meal, budget dinner, easy soup, comfort food, smoked paprika